Casio launching new Celviano digital pianos
February 17, 2010
Together with the new Privia PX-830 digital stage piano, Casio has introduced its latest Celviano digital pianos, the AP-620, AP-420 and AP-220 models.
In a compact case design not dissimilar to the Privia PX-830, features include a four-layer dynamic stereo piano sample, 128 note polyphony, 88-note Tri-Sensor scaled hammer keyboard, plus a resonance effect that mimics the sound of the dampers being released from the strings.
Available from the spring with prices ranging from $899.99 to $1,399.99.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Casio shows off new Privia PX-830 digital stage piano
February 11, 2010
About six months have passed since Casio launched its last Privia digital stage pianos and now we have the PX-830 to peruse.
Casio has certainly pulled out all the stops with this one, which offers four-layer dynamic stereo piano samples with seamless transitions and a wide dynamic range — in other words, more realism.
In-built is the simulated sound of open strings when the dampers are raised, thanks to the Acoustic Resonance DSP.
128 notes of polyphony should ensure complex performances, pedal use, and layered sounds don’t result in dropped notes.
How an instrument feels to play is critically important, and Casio’s “Ivory Touch” Tri-Sensor scaled hammer action keys should satisfy in that department.
There are 16 tones built in, a duet mode that allows simultaneous playing by two people in the same range, plus a two-track recorder.
Available from April, with a price tag of $1799.99 for the black polished cabinet edition or $1399.99 for the black matte version.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Yamaha introduces new CP series of digital stage pianos
February 5, 2010
Yamaha has announced a redesigned series of CP digital stage pianos, including the CP1, CP5 and CP50.
The top-of-line CP1 features the new NW-STAGE weighted wooden keys plus Yamaha’s new Spectral Component Modelling process which is touted to reproduce the sound and expressiveness of acoustic and vintage electronic pianos better than any previous audio technology.
It replicates the instrument’s physical components, including the hardness of the hammers, resonance of the sound board and the striking position of the hammers, for an ultra-realistic tone generation.
If that weren’t enough, there’s also Virtual Circuit Modelling which replicates the effect units, amplifiers, compressors, EQ and other equipment that were so essential in creating many of those legendary vintage sounds.
Finally, there’s a huge range of effects including VCM emulations of a number of historic pedals.
With all that on board, it’s good to know there’s 128-note polyphony to play with.
The CP5 and CP50 offer a slightly cut down range of features.
The CP1 is available now, while the CP5 and CP50 are expected in April.
Check out the full specifications of the keyboards below:
CP1 Specifications |
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| Keyboards | 88 keys, NW-STAGE keyboard (Wooden synthetic ivory weighted keyboard) |
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| Maximum Polyphony | 128 | ||
| Tone Generator | SCM | ||
| Performances | Preset | 16 x 3 groups | |
| User | 16 x 3 groups | ||
| External | 16 x 3 groups | ||
| Parts | 2 | ||
| Voice Block | 17 piano types | ||
| Modulation Effect Block | 10 types | ||
| Power Amplifier / Compressor Block | 8 types | ||
| Reverb | 8 types | ||
| Master Compressor | – | ||
| Master Equalizer | 5–band | ||
| Rhythm | Number of Kits | – | |
| Number of Patterns | – | ||
| Display | 55 character x 2 lines, VFD | ||
| Controllers | Pitch bend wheel, Master volume, Knobs 1 to 6 | ||
| Connectors | Output | PHONES L/MONO,R (Unbalanced) L, R (Balanced) |
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| Foot Switch | SUSTAIN, SOSTENUTO, SOFT, ASSIGNABLE |
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| Foot Controller | x 2 | ||
| Mic Input | – | ||
| MIDI | IN, OUT, THRU | ||
| USB | TO HOST, TO DEVICE | ||
| Power Consumption | 16W | ||
| Dimensions (W x D x H; not including pedal unit) | 1,385 x 420 x 173 mm | ||
| Weight (not including pedal unit) | 27.2 kg | ||
| Additional Package Contents | Power cord, Pedal unit, Illustrated Guide to the CP1 booklet, Owner’s Manual, Data List booklet, Software DVD-ROM* |
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| * Software DVD-ROM: Steinberg Cubase AI DAW Software. | |||
CP5 Specifications |
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| Keyboards | 88 keys, NW-STAGE keyboard (Wooden synthetic ivory weighted keyboard) |
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| Maximum Polyphony | 128 | ||
| Tone Generator | SCM + AWM2 | ||
| Performances | Preset | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | |
| User | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | ||
| External | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | ||
| Parts | 6 | ||
| Voice Block | 17 piano voices + 305 other voices | ||
| Modulation Effect Block | 49 types | ||
| Power Amplifier / Compressor Block | 8 types | ||
| Reverb | 8 types | ||
| Master Compressor | 3-band | ||
| Master Equalizer | 5–band | ||
| Rhythm | Number of Kits | 14 | |
| Number of Patterns | 100 | ||
| Display | 24 character x 2 lines, VFD | ||
| Controllers | Pitch bend wheel, Master volume, Knobs 1 to 3, Part volume x 6, Gain Master equalizer x 5 |
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| Connectors | Output | PHONES L/MONO,R (Unbalanced) L, R (Balanced) |
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| Foot Switch | SUSTAIN, ASSIGNABLE | ||
| Foot Controller | x 2 | ||
| Mic Input | x 1 | ||
| MIDI | IN, OUT, THRU | ||
| USB | TO HOST, TO DEVICE | ||
| Power Consumption | 25W | ||
| Dimensions (W x D x H; not including pedal unit) | 1,381 x 405 x 174 mm | ||
| Weight (not including pedal unit) | 25.2 kg | ||
| Additional Package Contents | Power cord, Foot pedal FC3, Owner’s Manual, Owner’s Manual CD-ROM, Software DVD-ROM* |
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| * Software DVD-ROM: Steinberg Cubase AI DAW Software. | |||
CP50 Specifications |
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| Keyboards | 88 keys, GH keyboard | ||
| Maximum Polyphony | 128 | ||
| Tone Generator | SCM + AWM2 | ||
| Performances | Preset | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | |
| User | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | ||
| External | 10 x 4 groups x 3 banks | ||
| Parts | 3 | ||
| Voice Block | 12 piano voices + 215 other voices | ||
| Modulation Effect Block | 49 types | ||
| Power Amplifier / Compressor Block | – | ||
| Reverb | 8 types | ||
| Master Compressor | 3-band | ||
| Master Equalizer | 3–band | ||
| Rhythm | Number of Kits | 14 | |
| Number of Patterns | 100 | ||
| Display | 24 character x 2 lines, VFD | ||
| Controllers | Pitch bend wheel, Master volume, Knobs 1 to 3, Part volume x 3, Master equalizer x 5 |
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| Connectors | Output | PHONES L/MONO,R (Unbalanced) |
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| Foot Switch | SUSTAIN, ASSIGNABLE | ||
| Foot Controller | x 1 | ||
| Mic Input | – | ||
| MIDI | IN, OUT, THRU | ||
| USB | TO HOST, TO DEVICE | ||
| Power Consumption | 7W | ||
| Dimensions (W x D x H; not including pedal unit) | 1,381 x 332 x 165 mm | ||
| Weight (not including pedal unit) | 20.9 kg | ||
| Additional Package Contents | Power adaptor PA-150 (or an equivalent recommended by Yamaha), Foot pedal FC3, Owner’s Manual, Owner’s Manual CD-ROM, Software DVD-ROM* |
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| * Software DVD-ROM: Steinberg Cubase AI DAW Software. | |||
Popularity: 2% [?]
Yamaha intros YDP-V420 Arius Ensemble digital piano
February 5, 2010
Yamaha has announced its latest Arius Ensemble digital piano, the YDP-V420.
It attempts to bridge the gap between a high-quality digital piano and the versatility of other keyboards, by including a wide range of high-quality sounds and accompaniment styles as well as cutting edge digital piano touch and sound.
As you’d expect from Yamaha, you get a great 88-key Graded Hammer Standard action and AWM sounds. You also get some of the best from Yamaha’s other keyboard instruments, such as 131 voices that include Sweet, Cool and Live voices, 191 interactive auto-accompaniment styles, plus XGlite song file compatibility that allows professionally-produced MIDI files to be loaded on to the instrument.
Full specifications should be available nearer to launch date, expected March 2010. As well as the spinet style cabinet, the set up comes with a padded bench.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Korg intros minimalist SP170 digital piano
February 4, 2010
Korg’s latest addition to its line of digital pianos is the SP170, a full-size keyboard that minimises distraction by doing away with control panels in favour of emphasising the keys and sound system.
If you’re after a simple keyboard where attention has been paid more to the feel and sound than additional features, the SP170 could be for you.
The ten sounds — two acoustic pianos, two electric pianos, harpsichord, clavichord, vibraphone, pipe organ, electric organ and strings — are selectable via the keys themselves, eliminating the need for buttons and leaving more room for the two 10cm x 5cm oval speakers, driven by 9W x 2 amplifier. There’s a reasonable 120 note polyphony (60 notes per stereo channel).
Korg has implemented its Natural Weighted Hammer Action system which promises a realistic feel — keys in the lower range are more heavily weighted than those in the upper range. Then again, every digital piano manufacturer offers something like this now, so you’ll need to play one to see if the feel is right for you.
Other functions include transposition, pitch control, MIDI output and damper pedal jack (just one pedal, it seems). Also two headphone/line out jacks.
It’s available in either black or white finish, weighs in at just under 27lbs and measures 51.65″ (W) × 12.8″ (D) × 5.24″ (H).
It has a RRP of $499.99.
Popularity: 2% [?]
Synth Basics: What is polyphony?
January 20, 2010
Whenever you buy a new digital piano, keyboard or synthesiser, one of its key specifications is the amount of polyphony.
But what exactly is polyphony?
In pure musical terms, polyphony is used to describe two or more independent melodic voices. This is in contrast to monophony (a single voice) or homophony (a single melody with chords).
However, when it comes to electronic musical instruments, we’re simply concerned with how many tones can be sounded at any one time.
These sounds don’t have to be melodic — in fact they don’t even necessarily have to be audible to the human ear!
Polyphony is the number of sounds an instrument can generate simultaneously.
That’s the theory, and in principle it’s pretty simple. In practice, however, things get a bit more complicated.
Let’s take a look at a digital piano. It may say that it has 64 note polyphony. That sounds rather a lot, right? After all, you only have ten fingers so you can’t play more than ten notes at any one time.
Correct — in part.
However, consider how most pianists play the piano, with judicious use of the sustain (damper) pedal.
Now consider that, in a digital piano (as opposed to an acoustic one, which effectively has unlimited polyphony) every single note counts towards the total polyphony from the moment it is first played, when a key is struck, to the moment its sound finally decays.
Long passages of music with heavy use of sustain could have tens or even hundreds of notes sounding at any one time, which is why a high polyphony count is generally considered a good thing.
If any instrument “runs out of sounds”, then generally new sounds take priority and currently playing sounds are abruptly cut off. This can produce an unnatural, clipped sound.
Now let’s look at a synthesiser instrument.
You may assume that every note you play is a single sound, but your selected sound might be a composite of several sounds. That eats into polyphony.
As a further complication, some manufacturers “bank” polyphony into two or more groups. So, an instrument that claims 128 notes of polyphony may in fact offer two distinct groups of 64 notes. Some sounds may be available in one group but not the other, so, depending on which sounds you select, you may not always get full polyphony.
Now consider the use of rhythm and other accompaniments on home keyboards.
Every auto-accompaniment you play could be using multiple sounds at any one time, reducing the amount of polyphony remaining for the sounds you wish to play over the top.
And finally, it’s fairly obvious that if you are using either an on-board sequencer, or one on your computer that uses the keyboard’s own sounds, then you’ll need more polyphony in order to play two or more tracks of sounds simultaneously.
So, when purchasing a keyboard instrument or synth unit, consider its polyphony and whether it will be sufficient for your needs.
Generally, the higher polyphony the better, though you will pay more for the privilege.
Image by Horla Varlen
Popularity: 3% [?]
Casio intros two new stage pianos: PX-130 and PX-330
August 12, 2009
Rather quietly, with no obvious press release, Casio last week announced the latest in its line of Privia stage/studio digital pianos.
The PX-130 and PX-330 are relatively lightweight, portable block digital pianos featuring realistic grand piano sounds, a range of other voices, expressive touch thanks to the Tri-Sensor 88-note scaled hammer action keyboard, plus built-in recorder and MIDI.
The full specifications for both models are below:
PX-130 technical specifications
| Keyboard | 88 keys, weighted scaled hammer action | |
| Sound Source | 4 level stereo samples, Linear Morphing System | |
| Acoustic Resonance | Yes | |
| Polyphony (maximum) | 128 | |
| Tones | 16 | |
| Reverb | 4 types | |
| Chorus | 4 types | |
| Brilliance | -3 to +3 | |
| Layer (with variable balance) | Yes | |
| Split | Yes | |
| Duet Mode | Yes | |
| Metronome | 0,2,3,4,5,6 beats | |
| Transpose | -12 to +12 semi tones | |
| Tuning Control | A4=440Hz +99 cents | |
| Temperament(preset scale) | equal temperament + 16 scales | |
| Recorder | 1 Song, 2 Tracks | |
| Preset Songs | 60 | |
| USB Storage (utilizing PC) | Yes | |
| Speakers | (13cmx6cm) x2 | |
| Amplifier | 8W + 8W | |
| Terminals | ||
| USB to Host (USB MIDI) | Yes, supporting XP, Vista, Mac | |
| Damper (Sustain) | Yes | |
| Connector for SP32 (3 Pedal Unit) | Yes | |
| Headphones | Yes x 2 | |
| Accessories | ||
| AC Adaptor | Yes(AD-A12150LW) | |
| Music Stand | Yes | |
| Pedal | Yes | |
| Score Book | Yes, SP-3 | |
| Dimensions and Weight | ||
| Unit size – W x D x H | 52.05” x 11.26” x 5.31” | |
| Unit weight in pounds | 24.7 lbs | |
| Boxed size – W x D x H | 57.48” x 14.53” x 8.35” | |
| Boxed weight | 33.52 lbs | |
| Optional Accessories | ||
| CS-67 | Stand for P-130/330 | |
| SP-32 | 3 Pedal unit providing Sustain, Soft and Sostenuto | |
PX-330 technical specifications
| Keyboard | 88 keys, weighted scaled hammer action | |
| Sound Source | 4 level stereo samples, Linear Morphing System | |
| Acoustic Resonance | Yes | |
| Polyphony (maximum) | 128 | |
| Tones | 250 | |
| General MIDI Compatible | Level 1 | |
| Rhythms | 180 | |
| Auto-Accompaniment | Yes | |
| Reverb | 4 types | |
| Chorus | 4 types | |
| Brillianance | -3 to +3 | |
| Layer (with variable balance) | Yes | |
| Split (with variable split point) | Yes | |
| Registration Memory | Yes | |
| Duet Mode | Yes | |
| Pitch Bend Wheel | Yes | |
| Metronome | 0,2,3,4,5,6 beats | |
| Transpose | -12 to +12 semi tones | |
| Tuning Control | A4=440Hz +99 cents | |
| Temperament (preset scale) | equal temperament + 16 scales | |
| Recorder | 10 Songs, 16 Tracks | |
| USB Storage (utilizing PC) | Yes | |
| SD Memory Card Storage | Yes | |
| Display | 96×32 Back Light LCD | |
| Speakers | (13cmx6cm) x2 | |
| Amplifier | 8W + 8W | |
| Terminals | ||
| Line Out 1/4” | R, L/Mono | |
| Line Input 1/4” | R, L/Mono | |
| MIDI | IN, OUT | |
| USB to Host (USB MIDI) | Yes, supporting XP, Vista, Mac | |
| Damper (Sustain) | Yes | |
| Soft/Sostenuto | Yes | |
| Connector for SP32 (3 Pedal Unit) | Yes | |
| Headphones | Yes x 2 | |
| Accessories | ||
| AC Adaptor | Yes(AD-A12150LW) | |
| Music Stand | Yes | |
| Pedal | Yes, SP-3 | |
| Dimensions and Weight | ||
| Unit size – W x D x H | 52.05” x 11.26” x 5.31” | |
| Unit weight in pounds | 24.7 lbs | |
| Boxed size – W x D x H | 57.48” x 14.53” x 8.35” | |
| Boxed weight | 33.52 lbs | |
| Optional Accessories | ||
| CS-67 | Stand for P-130/330 | |
| SP-32 | 3 Pedal unit providing Sustain, Soft and Sostenuto | |
Popularity: 16% [?]
Recommended Digital Pianos
June 26, 2009
Here is my current selection of favorite digital pianos that you can buy today.
Yamaha P-85 Digital Piano
More entry level digital piano with Yamaha’s realistic digital samples, realistic graded hammer touch, half pedaling and three pedal support, song recording, variety of other sounds.
Buy the Yamaha P-85 Acoustic-Like Touch Response AWM Stereo Sampled Tabletop Piano
Yamaha DGX630
Graded soft touch full size keyboard from Yamaha, featuring a 6-track recorder, DSP sound effects, a huge range of other sounds, virtual band, half-pedaling support.
Buy the Yamaha DGX630 88 Full-Sized Keys with Weighted Graded Hammer Action – AC Adapter Included
Yamaha P140
The digital piano I currently own. Has a great touch and good sounds. Though superseded by the Yamaha P155, still a recommended purchase. Half-pedaling support, graded hammer weighting.
Buy the Yamaha P-140 Portable Digital Piano
Yamaha CP300
This digital stage piano is specially built to withstand the rigors and requirements of gigging on the road. Authentic touch, a huge range of other sounds, 5-band equalizer.
Buy the Yamaha CP300 Digital Stage Piano
Casio Privia PX120
88-key piano keyboard with weighted keys, touch response, 128 note polyphony, various effects, Auto Accompaniment.
Buy the Casio PX120 Privia Digital Piano
Roland RD-700GX
88 keys PHA II Ivory Feel Keyboard with Escapement, Stereo Multi-sampled Piano Sound, range of other sounds, synthesizer capabilities, sound expansion cards.
Buy the Roland RD-700GX 88-key Digital Piano
Nord Stage EX 88
I love Nord’s range of keyboards, as much for their look as their capabilities. This 88 note stage piano offers both weighted keys and aftertouch, so it’s great for synth work too. Nevertheless, it’s lightweight, and comes with a range of sounds and effects.
Buy the Nord Stage EX 88, 88-Key Stage Piano
Disclaimer: I receive a small percentage of the sale price for anything you buy here, which goes towards maintaining this site. However, I fully endorse these digital pianos regardless of that, as I believe they are of high build quality and offer a great playing experience.
Popularity: 13% [?]
M-Audio DCP-300 digital console piano now available from Avid
May 5, 2009

The latest in the M-Audio line of digital console pianos has arrived, with Avid’s announcement of the DCP-300.
Main features include:
- Sixteen premium sounds including Steinway Model D concert grand piano plus two vintage electric pianos, FM electric piano, clav, harpsichord, church organ, rock organ, strings, upright bass, electric bass, vibes, choir, fantasia, warm synth pad;
- 64-note polyphony;
- 40-watt stereo speaker system;
- 88-note TruTouch II graded hammer action keyboard
- Three pedals, including sostenuto;
- Built-in USB MIDI;
- Audio inputs;
- built-in 2-track recording with 28,000-note memory;
- layer / split modes;
- reverb / chorus effects;
- Included Session and Sibelius First software;
- two elegant finish options: dark wood-grain and rich walnut.
Available now with a recommended retail price of $1,375.95.
Popularity: 7% [?]
Yamaha P155 digital piano: Complete specifications and gallery
April 25, 2009
If you want the lowdown on Yamaha’s new portable digital piano, the P155, then look no further. Here are complete specifications, pictures, and comparison with Yamaha’s earlier P series instruments.
Overview
- The Yamaha P155 features samples taken directly from the CFIIIS 9-foot grand piano
- Uses Yamaha’s Pure CF sampling technology with minimal audio post-processing
- Dynamic Stereo Sampling (DSS) technology features 4-level piano sample
- Key off and open strings samples
- Graded Hammer technology – lower keys are heavier
- 128 note polyphony
- 12W x 2 speakers
Detailed Specifications
| P155 Specifications | |
| Keyboard | 88 keys, Graded Hammer (GH) |
| Tone Generation | 4-level AWM Dynamic Stereo Sampling |
| Pure CF Sampling | YES |
| Key-Off Sampling/Stereo Sustain Sampling | YES |
| Damper Resonance | YES |
| Polyphony (Max.) | 128 |
| Voices | 17 |
| Reverb | 4 types |
| Brilliance | 3 types |
| Effect | 4 types |
| Dual | YES |
| Split | YES |
| Metronome | YES |
| Tuning/Transpose | YES |
| Scale Tuning Types | 7 types |
| Song Recording | 2-track recording/playback, 3 User Song |
| Preset Songs | 7 Demo Songs, 50 Piano Preset Songs |
| Jacks & Connectors | |
| MIDI | IN/OUT |
| Headphones | 2 (stereo 1/4″ jack) |
| Pedals | Sustain Pedal, AUX Pedal |
| AUX OUT (Variable) | L/L+R, R (1/4″ jack) |
| USB TO DEVICE | YES (song data storage) |
| Amplifiers | 12W x 2 |
| Speakers | (12 x 6) cm x 2 |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 52-1/2″ x 16-13/16″ x 5-1/2″ |
| Weight | 18.6 kg (41 lbs.) |
| Colors | P-155: Black with Mahogany top-board P-155B: Black with Ebony top-board P-155S: Silver with Cherry top-board |
Pictures
Comparison
- Step up in (doubling) polyphony from P140 / P120
- Return to P120’s variable output level 1/4″ audio jacks
- USB output options
- More scale tunings available
- More advanced sampling
Buy Yamaha Digital Pianos at Amazon
Popularity: 19% [?]




















